CN110562595A

CN110562595A - Cup and container with living hinge and sleeve

Info

Publication number: CN110562595A
Application number: CN201910196601.7A
Authority: CN
Inventors: G·托比亚斯
Original assignee: Clarit
Current assignee: Clarit
Priority date: 2018-06-06
Filing date: 2019-03-15
Publication date: 2019-12-13
Also published as: BR202019011755U2; US20190375560A1; EP3578476B1; EP3578476A1; KR20190003091U; CA3025242A1; JP7245495B2; JP2019210055A; US10947018B2; AU2019203960A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to cups, containers and sleeves, and therefore has a living hinge and a double seal structure on the lid, such that the seal created by the contact of the lid with the inside of the cup or container ensures a secure friction fit orientation to prevent spillage or leakage of the contents therein. The dual seal is formed by a first portion on the lip of the lid which extends downwardly from the top of the lid and is shaped substantially as a rib on the bottom edge of the lip, and the perimeter of the lip is the same size and shape as the inner perimeter of the cup or container so that a secure seal is formed when closed. The cup and container also have an internal concentric structure that follows the shape of the cup or container just above the base to provide stability and facilitate stacking, removal, and manufacturing.

Description

Cup and container with living hinge and sleeve

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the patent and trademark office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

Cross Reference to Related Applications

This patent application relates to the design patent application "cup and container with living hinge and lid with double seal" filed on 3.6.2018 with application number 16/001,785. Each of these applications is incorporated herein by reference.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to one-piece, easily reusable, sealable, leak-free cups and containers for containing hot or cold liquids or foods having a receptacle portion and a lid attached to the receptacle portion by a living hinge. Cups and containers for hot liquids and foods may include built-in barrier ribs, or injection molded sleeves for sliding over the cup to insulate or protect the user's hand from the heat of the liquid in the cup. These cups and containers are preferably made of recyclable resin or polypropylene and are manufactured in a quick and efficient manner.

background

There are numerous prior art references in the art, including U.S. patent nos. 3,373,896; 4,076,123, respectively; 4,257,526, respectively; 4,640,435, respectively; 5,270,011, respectively; 5,312,011, respectively; 5,820,016, respectively; 6,955,289, respectively; 8,100,289, respectively; 8,336,732, respectively; 8,701,887, respectively; 8,701,914, respectively; d642,863; d642,862; d642,864; d683,186; and U.S. published application nos. 2017/0096281 and 2012/0024877.

Each of these patents or published applications has one or more drawbacks such as collapsing when full, being complex for the user or being manufactured, multi-stream recycling requirements, leaking, being slow and inefficient in the manufacturing process, being expensive in the manufacturing process, or being bulky and inconvenient to carry in large quantities. These disadvantages create a need for a one-piece, easily recyclable, sealable, leak-free cup and container for containing hot or cold liquids or foods having: a receptacle portion and a lid attached to the receptacle with a living hinge, a dual seal and a fluid diverter as described herein; and an injection molded sleeve, or built-in barrier rib, for sliding over the cup or container.

Disclosure of Invention

The present invention is a significant improvement in the utility and functionality of a standard cup and lid combination and overcomes the deficiencies in the art by realizing a one-piece, fully reusable, sealable, leak-free cup and container for containing hot or cold liquids or foods having a receptacle portion and a lid attached to the receptacle by a living hinge. The cup and container for holding hot liquids of the present invention may have an internal sleeve with a raised surface that isolates the cup without interfering with the stacking or efficient manufacturing process. The built-in sleeve may be in the form of a film or repeating vertical ribs protruding from the outer surface of the cup or container. An injection molded sleeve is also contemplated that fits over the receptacle portion of the cup to insulate the contents, or to protect the user's hand from the heat of the contents within the cup.

These cups and containers are injection molded in an efficient manner by using a mold, i.e., approximately 20 cups can be manufactured every 8 seconds. The materials used for the cups and containers of the present invention, the claimed shapes and features of the cups and containers, the material of the molds, and the performance of the molding machines are all considered in designing the embodiments disclosed and claimed herein, as each unique feature is carefully designed to facilitate the injection molding process. Because of these unique features, the process is efficient, high throughput, and has minimal impact on the injection molding machine to ensure the useful life of the mold, thereby enabling a very economical manufacturing process that produces nearly leak-free sealed cups and containers that are easy to stack, transport, store, and use.

Here, the injection molding operation creates three parts in total as a single piece at a time, namely: a lid, a hinge, and a lower receiver portion. These manufacturing components are controlled electronically to achieve an efficient production mode and reduce the amount of spillage from the cup or container (if any) by creating an upper, inner double seal of accurate measurement and output in the receptacle portion, in the living hinge, on the rim of the lid, and on the contour of the top of the lid. The manufacture of the cups, containers and sleeves of the present invention significantly reduces the cost of manufacturing paper cups, containers and sleeves. Furthermore, the design of the hinge of the present invention is structured so that the molds used to make the cups and containers do not wear through. In particular, the hinge radius is designed for mold flexibility and ejection requiring a small ejection pressure.

In addition, the design of the cups, containers and sleeves of the present invention are carefully polished into the presently claimed invention such that the manufacturing time per unit is significantly reduced to less than 10 seconds per cup, container or sleeve. This makes the product of the present invention commercially viable and cost competitive with existing processes of polymer lined paper or polystyrene foam cups, which are environmentally serious because, according to the international coffee organization, nearly 6000 billion foam and paper cups enter the waste stream each year. Heretofore, the common outcome of prior art foam and paper cups has been to enter a waste landfill or the ocean as plastic contamination.

In particular, the design of the present invention is less stressful for expensive manufacturing molds while providing a useful life of approximately 15-20 years for the same machine and allowing for fast compression and turnaround times. This saves more cost, as the die cost per machine can exceed hundreds of thousands of dollars or even more.

In contrast, the prior art molded cups with attached lids have a manufacturing time of more than one minute per cup, container or sleeve and do not function as well as the design of the present invention. For example, prior art cup designs with built-in lids are unstable, prone to toppling or collapsing when liquid is inside, leak and fail to stabilize the seal created between the lid and the lower receptacle due to the lack of a dual seal or fluid diverting structure, and are difficult to manufacture commercially. These inefficient designs result in increased friction of the mold, which results in the mold wearing through quickly (e.g., after 5 years of use), thereby further reducing the profitability of the design.

Thus, the disclosed embodiments of the invention provide significant improvements over prior patents for cups with built-in lids with regard to functionality, leak-proof sealing, and commercial manufacturing feasibility.

The cup of the present invention is molded and fully sealable and is capable of containing liquid or food without leakage. This cup includes: a lower receiver portion having a base, an open top, and sidewalls between the base and the open top, the base having a smaller diameter than the top, the sidewalls forming a cylinder from the base to the open top and forming an inner portion and an outer portion of the cup, the open top having an upper edge defining an outermost periphery of the open top and a living hinge having a flexible radius, and a groove extending the entire circumference of the inner portion of the cup below the upper edge; the living hinge molded into an upper edge of the open top, attached to the lower receptacle portion and a lid, the living hinge allowing the lid to be bent over the open top, wherein the lid can fit securely into the groove extending the entire circumference of the inner portion of the cup; the lid having a top surface and a bottom surface sized and shaped to fit securely into the inner perimeter of the open top of the cup, the top surface of the lid sloping downward from the outermost perimeter of the open top to the center of the lid, the perimeter around the bottom surface of the lid having a lip extending downward from the perimeter of the lid, the lip forming a double seal structure having a bottom edge that fits in the groove that extends the entire perimeter of the inner portion of the cup and a top edge that is the same size and shape as the inner perimeter of the upper edge of the top, the top edge having one or more L-shaped tabs that extend upward from the top edge and across the upper edge of the cup; wherein the living hinge permits the lid to be bent along a line of the hinge to flexibly secure the lid to the cup and prevent leakage of the substance contained therein.

The bi-directional sealing inner surfaces on the lip of the lid extending downwardly from the perimeter of the lid exhibit a radial convex/concave horizontal seal in combination with a length of flat vertical seal that is injection molded and can be adapted for all other forms of molding, including vacuum molding or thermal molding via a double "skirt" feature. Accordingly, the structure provides a secure seal to prevent almost all fluid from leaking when the lid is properly locked within the groove extending the circumference of the inner portion of the cup. Also, the fluid diverter on the top of the cap ensures that all fluid flows away from the seal and towards the top center of the cap. This prevents puddling (puddling) from occurring at the lid-wall intersection. The fluid diverter is positioned around the entire top perimeter of the lid, including on the living hinge, to ensure the most effective seal and liquid flow away from the rim. This also helps to prevent liquid from dripping unnecessarily onto the user when opening the cup. The two-way seal is contained in all cups and containers.

In some embodiments, the lid has a small opening opposite the living hinge to allow liquid to pass through. Individuals drinking from the cup may sip liquid through the small opening. Additionally, in some embodiments having such a small drinking aperture opening, the lid has a vent hole approximately 1-2mm in diameter near the living hinge to allow smooth flow of liquid from the cup and eliminate suction that could impede liquid flow from the drinking aperture. Alternatively, the lid has a circular opening in the center that can receive a straw. Also, the cups can be easily stacked because of the inner concentric circular material on the inside of the cups, just above the base. This inner portion of the cup above the base has a concentrically moulded lip which extends the circumference of the inner portion of the cup just above the base on the sidewall. Such a concentric molded lip allows the cups to be stacked together and easily removed because the base of each cup is maintained a distance from the second cup and does not stick the cups together.

The living hinge of the cup is thin and flexible, has a flexible arc of material that allows the lid to bend along the line of the hinge and fit securely within the top interior of the cup, has the same thickness as the rest of the cup, and is made of the same material as the lower portion of the cup and the lid. The flexible arc is located at a discontinuity in the top contour of the cup, the discontinuity on the contour having two arcuate edges on each side of the living hinge, the two arcuate edges extending upwardly from the flexible arc of the living hinge to the upper edge.

These arcuate edges ensure that there is no wear and tear on the living hinge, minimal friction is created, and smooth opening and closing movement is permitted. The top of the living hinge on the top of the lid of the cup is also bent to maintain the same curve as the inner circumference of the cup. The bent shape of this part of the hinge ensures that any additional liquid material on the top of the lid is directed downwards and away from the seal. In addition, the overall shape of the living hinge and the curved edge in the discontinuity in the contour ensure a secure seal between the lid and the bottom portion of the cup. In addition, the shape allows the cup to be efficiently molded with and removed from the mold when the cup is manufactured, so that the mold is not unnecessarily worn and the manufacturing can be completed more quickly and quickly than existing molding processes.

the rounded shape of the container of the present invention may resemble a cup or may be rectangular or square to accommodate food products. All containers have the same living hinge as the cup and are made of the same material. They are molded and are completely sealable and capable of containing liquids or food without leakage. These containers include: a lower receiver portion having a base, an open top, and a sidewall between the base and the open top, the base being rounded, substantially rectangular or square, and having an area at the bottom that is smaller than at the top, the sidewall forming a cylinder if the container base is rounded, or correspondingly rectangular or square if the base is rectangular or square, all the sidewalls extending from the base to the open top and forming inner and outer portions of the container, the open top having a groove defining an outermost periphery of the open top and an upper edge of a living hinge having a flexible circular arc, and extending the entire circumference of the inner portion of the container below the upper edge; the living hinge is molded in an upper edge of the open top, attached to the lower receiver portion and a lid, the living hinge allowing the lid to be bent over the open top, wherein the lid can fit securely into the groove extending the entire perimeter of the inner portion of the container; the lid has a top surface and a bottom surface sized and shaped to fit securely into the inner perimeter of the open top of the container, the top surface of the lid sloping downward from the outermost perimeter of the open top to the center of the lid, the perimeter around the bottom surface of the lid having a lip extending downward from the perimeter of the lid, the lip forming a double seal structure having a bottom edge that fits in a groove that extends the entire perimeter of the inner portion of the container and a top edge that is the same size and shape as the inner perimeter of the upper edge of the top, the top edge having the one or more L-shaped tabs extending upward from the top edge and across the upper edge of the cup; wherein the living hinge permits the lid to be bent along a line of the hinge to flexibly secure the lid to the container and prevent leakage of the material contained therein.

These containers may have openings in the lid to allow vapor to escape or to pour liquid out.

The sleeve of the present invention is open on the inside, rounded in shape, and the inner diameter of the sleeve is wider at the top than at the bottom to form a tight fit on the lower receiver portion of the cup of the present invention when in use. These sleeves are rigid and collapsible, with living hinges on each side of the sleeve. They have no overlapping edges so that the thickness is consistent throughout. The sleeve is made of the same resin as the cup and container of the present invention by an injection molding manufacturing process. The width may vary in size to accommodate cups of different sizes, for example, about 2 to 40 ounce cups, but the width may be constant and sized and shaped to accommodate all sizes of cups capable of holding approximately 2 to 40 ounces of liquid. For example, the diameter of the sleeve may be between 2 and 8cm, preferably between 3 and 6 cm.

The length of the sleeve of the present invention is adapted to provide sufficient coverage over the cup to protect the user holding the cup or container from the cup or container containing the hot liquid or food. For example, the length of the sleeve may be between 2 and 8cm, preferably between 2 and 5 cm.

The materials used to make the cups, containers and sleeves are preferably resins, polypropylene or other similar recyclable and moldable materials. Alternative materials may include bio-resins that are biodegradable and compostable, resulting in a single recycle stream similar to the use of resin polypropylene. Since embodiments of the present invention use a single material for the cup, lid, sleeve and label, they are all completely recyclable and can be directly reground from a recycling bin into usable resin.

Furthermore, the same material as the cup and container and sleeve has the advantage that the articles of the present invention create a single recycle stream, as there is no separation requirement. The cup, lid, sleeve and any printed label on the cup or container are made of the same single resin or bio-resin and are truly recyclable or degradable.

in contrast, prior art cups and lids are constructed of layers of one or more materials, or a combination of paper and plastic, which complicates the recycling process. In order for the cups and containers made up of the layers to be recycled, they must be peeled off into their component parts to be recycled. For example, Tetra containing a number of food and liquid items^TMThe package is lined with a material that must be peeled from the outer material before reuse. Paper cups used in coffee shops with large numbers of consumers are coated with a thin plastic liner to prevent leakage. These are more difficult to recycle because the plastic is not easily separated from the paper. Currently, few cities have the appropriate infrastructure to handle such "layered" or lined cups and containers. While new york, seattle and washington, d.c. are three of the cities that could address this complex process, cities without this capability would eventually put the prior art cups and containers into a waste landfill. In addition, large coffee shops line their paper cup waste and plasticThe lid is much cheaper to send to a landfill than locating the mesh points to handle the cups to compost them and recycle them.

furthermore, paper cups and containers contaminated with grease or food debris (which typically occurs when the container holds food or when the cup or container is placed into a recycling bin with other grease materials) cannot be recycled at all. In summary, a reusable and compostable package is only useful when ultimately in a waste disposal facility where it can be disposed of. Many compostable cups cannot be decomposed in backyard composters (because they do not become hot enough) or even in waste landfills (where the waste is decomposed by an anaerobic process to produce methane, i.e., greenhouse gases). Also, compostable cups may be a contaminant in recycling facilities.

Here, the inventive cup, container, sleeve and label are made of the same resin and can be discarded without separation by the user or a disposer. This resolves the conflict and confusion in the recycling industry where single flow boxes now comprise paper bonded with polylactic acid liners that can only be removed or separated in a few cities using expensive infrastructure. These, along with (if not separated) mixed plastic resin cups that contaminate the recycling site, are the vast majority of 6000 billion paper and plastic cups produced annually that ultimately enter waste landfills.

Since many cities and municipalities are considering or totally banning the tax on disposable prior art paper cups, more stringent measures are being taken to reduce this waste. The cups, containers, sleeves and labels of the present invention solve this problem in the art because they are reusable, reusable and fully reusable or biodegradable.

Alternative methods of manufacturing cups, containers and sleeves may include 3D printing, thermoforming or vacuum thermoforming.

drawings

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cup with a living hinge and a lid with an internal double seal, wherein the lid is concave;

FIG. 2 is a right side view thereof;

FIG. 3 is a front view thereof;

FIG. 4 is a top view thereof;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a cup with a living hinge and a lid with an internal double seal, wherein the lid is bubble shaped;

FIG. 6 is a side view thereof;

FIG. 7 is a front view thereof;

FIG. 8 is a top view thereof;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a round bottom container with a living hinge and lid with an internal double seal wherein the lid is concave;

FIG. 10 is a side view thereof;

FIG. 11 is a front view thereof;

FIG. 12 is a top view thereof;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a substantially rectangular-based container having a living hinge and a lid with an internal double seal, wherein the lid is concave;

FIG. 14 is a side view thereof;

FIG. 15 is a front view thereof;

FIG. 16 is a top view thereof;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a cup with a living hinge and a lid with an internal double seal, wherein the lid is concave and the lid is in an open position;

FIG. 18 is a side view thereof;

FIG. 19 is a front view thereof;

FIG. 20 is a top view thereof;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a cup with a living hinge and a lid with an internal dual seal, wherein the lid is a bubble lid and the lid is in an open position;

FIG. 22 is a side view thereof;

FIG. 23 is a front view thereof;

FIG. 24 is a top view thereof;

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a round bottom container with a living hinge and lid with an internal double seal, where the lid is concave and the lid is in an open position;

FIG. 26 is a side view thereof;

FIG. 27 is a front view thereof;

FIG. 28 is a top view thereof;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a substantially rectangular-based container having a living hinge and a lid with an internal double seal, wherein the lid is concave and the lid is in an open position;

FIG. 30 is a side view thereof;

FIG. 31 is a front view thereof;

FIG. 32 is a top view thereof;

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of the cup of the present invention with a living hinge and an internal double seal when stacked with the lid in an open position;

FIG. 34 is an enlarged side view of the inner double seal on the lid in the closed position;

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of the inner double seal on the lid in the open position;

FIG. 36 is a second perspective view of the inner double seal on the lid in the open position;

FIG. 37 is an enlarged perspective view of the inner double seal on the lid in the closed position; and is

FIG. 38 is an enlarged perspective view of the living hinge.

FIG. 39 is a perspective view of a cup with a wrapping rib wrapping around the outside of the cup.

Detailed Description

the detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of the presently preferred embodiments of the invention and is not intended to represent the only forms in which the present invention may be constructed or utilized. The description sets forth the functions and the sequence of steps for constructing and operating the invention in connection with the illustrated embodiments. It is to be understood, however, that the same or equivalent functions and sequences may be accomplished by different embodiments that are also intended to be encompassed within the spirit and scope of the invention.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cup with a living hinge and a lid with an internal double seal, wherein the lid is concave. A molded sealable cup (including 10) for containing a liquid or food has a lower receptacle portion 20 with a base 30, an open top 40, and sidewalls 50 between the base and the open top, the base being of smaller diameter than the top, the sidewalls forming a cylinder from the base to the open top and forming inner and outer portions of the cup, the open top having an upper edge 60 defining the outermost periphery of the open top and a living hinge 70 with a flexible circular arc 80 and a groove 90 below the upper edge extending the entire circumference of the inner portion of the cup. A living hinge 70 is molded into the upper edge 60 of the open top, attached to the lower receiver portion 20 and lid 100, the living hinge 70 allowing the lid 100 to be bent over the open top with the lid 100 securely fitting into a groove 108 that extends the entire perimeter of the inner portion of the cup. The lid structure 100 has a top surface 102 and a bottom surface 104 sized and shaped to fit securely into the inner perimeter of the open top of the cup 108, the top surface of the lid sloping downward from the outermost perimeter of the open top to the center of the lid, the perimeter around the bottom surface of the lid having a lip 106 extending downward from the perimeter of the lid, the lip 106 forming a double seal structure having a bottom edge 106 that fits in a groove 108 that extends the entire perimeter of the inner portion of the cup, and a top edge that is the same size and shape as the inner perimeter of the upper edge of the top that has one or more L-shaped tabs 120 extending upward from the top edge and across the upper edge of the cup 10. The living hinge 70 of the present invention permits the lid 100 to be bent along the line of the hinge to flexibly secure the lid 100 to the lower portion of the cup 20 and prevent leakage of the substance contained therein.

In addition, the groove 90, which extends the entire circumference of the inner part of the lid below the upper edge, directs the fluid away from the seal into the center of the lid, and

Wherein the double seal ensures that the outer circumference of the lid contacts the inner circumference of the cup to ensure a secure seal. These bi-directional sealing inner surfaces exhibit a radial convex/concave horizontal seal in combination with a length of flat vertical seal that is injection molded and can be adapted for all other forms of molding, including vacuum molding or thermal molding via a double "skirt" feature. Also, a 360 degree molded internal stacking feature 132 may be positioned on the inside of the perimeter of the sidewall of the cup. The stacking feature 132 can increase the weight of the cup and improve the stability of the product against tipping because it makes the inner perimeter of the cup just above the base a bit thicker than the sidewall of the cup. An alternative design for this stacking feature may be a raised concentric circle at the bottom of the innermost base of the cup.

Also, the fluid diverter 90 on the top of the lid ensures that all fluid flows away from the seal and towards the top center of the lid. This prevents puddling from occurring at the lid wall intersection. The fluid diverter 90 is positioned around the entire perimeter of the top of the lid, including the area of the living hinge 70. The living hinge 70 is designed for mold flexibility and ejection requiring less ejection pressure.

The cover may have: a small opening 130 opposite the living hinge to allow liquid to pass through; and a small vent adjacent the living hinge to allow liquid to flow smoothly through the small opening when consumed. The small vent hole prevents aspiration of liquid that occurs when trying to drink liquid from the cup. Also, the base of the inner portion of the cup has a concentric molded lip 132 that extends the circumference of the inner portion of the cup on the sidewall just above the base, wherein the concentric molded lip 132 allows the cups to be stacked together and easily removed. When the cups are stacked, the base of the second cup sits atop the concentric molded lip 132 of the first cup, and the living hinge and lid are aligned. A plurality of cups can be stacked on each other and can be easily separated as shown in fig. 33. The prior art disposable cups may not have this feature, resulting in the cups sticking together when stacked and requiring the user to have the dexterity and complexity to separate the cups. In contrast, the cup of the present invention can be selected by the user from a stack and easily separated without sticking due to the concentric molded lip 132, allowing quick access to the cup by crew members, coffee shops, and restaurant service personnel and helping the customer.

the upper edge 60 of the cup has a discontinuity on the perimeter to accommodate the living hinge 70 that has two curved edges 72 on each side of the living hinge that extend upward from the flexible arc 80 of the living hinge 70 to the upper edge 60.

the cup shown in fig. 1, and all other embodiments of cups and containers disclosed herein, may have a built-in spacer sleeve that includes vertical concentric ribs that project above the surface of the lower receptacle portion and separate the cups or containers without interfering with stacking or manufacturing. The raised ribs are made of the same material as the cup.

the cup shown in fig. 1, as well as all other embodiments of the cups and containers disclosed herein, may have a label wrapped around the outside of the cup or container that is made of the same material as the cup or container, thus not requiring peeling or changing anything before placing the cup or container of the present invention into the recycling stream. The label may be transparent, colored, white and have a smooth texture or a slightly rough texture of "orange peel". Product names, pictures and text may be added to the label. Also, labels may be added in the injection molding process so that adding labels does not complicate manufacturing.

Fig. 2 is a right side view of a cup 10 with a living hinge 70 and lid with an internal double seal when the lid is friction fit into the lower portion 20 of the cup and fits within an internal groove that extends the circumference of the inner portion of the cup, an external rib is shown as 110. The first portion of the double seal is a fit within the groove and the second portion of the double seal is a friction fit when the upper edge of the bottom portion of the lid is pushed into the interior of the cup. The lid can be easily removed and inserted using one or more tabs 120.

fig. 3 is a front view of the cup 10 with the lid in the closed position, showing one or more tabs 120. In addition, the outer rib 110 of the inner double seal is shown as the lid is friction fit into the lower portion of the cup 20.

Fig. 4 is a top view of cup 10 with living hinge 70 and flexible arcs 80 showing the lid in a friction fit position. A fluid diverter structure 90 is shown and as described herein, the edge of the lid meets the interior of the cup and slopes downward in the direction of the center of the lid to divert fluid away from the seal. One or more tabs 120 for assisting in opening and closing the lid are shown, as well as a small opening 130 through which liquid in the cup can pass or through which a straw can be inserted.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the cup 140 with the living hinge 160 and the bubble or domed lid 150 with a dual seal, showing internal working features, including the bottom edge 194 of the bubble lid; a lip 196 on the bottom edge of the bubble lid that fits into a groove 198 that extends the perimeter of the interior of the cup, shown in fig. 21; and an outer portion of the double seal structure 180 in which a lip on the bottom edge of the bubble lid fits securely within the outer portion. The embodiment 140 has a lower receiver portion 152 having a base 154, an open top 156, and a sidewall 158 between the base 154 and the open top 156, the base 154 being smaller in diameter than the top 156, the sidewall 158 forming a cylinder from the base 154 to the open top 156 and forming inner and outer portions of a cup, the open top 156 having an upper edge 157 defining an outermost periphery of the open top 156 and a living hinge 160 having a flexible circular arc.

A living hinge 160 is molded into the upper edge 157 of the open top 156, attached to the lower receptacle portion 152 and the bubble or dome shaped lid 150, the living hinge 160 allowing the lid 150 to be bent over the open top 156 wherein the lid 150 fits securely into a groove 198 that extends the entire perimeter of the inner portion of the cup.

the lid 150 has a top surface 192 and a bottom edge 194 sized and shaped to fit securely into the inner perimeter of the open top of the cup, the top surface 192 of the lid has a bubble shape 150 that protrudes from the outermost perimeter of the open top 156, the perimeter around the bottom surface 164 of the lid has a lip 196 that extends downward from the perimeter of the lid, the lip 196 forms a double seal structure having a bottom edge 196 that fits into a groove 198 that extends the entire perimeter of the inner portion of the cup and a top edge 192 that is the same size and shape as the inner perimeter of the upper edge of the top, the top edge 192 having one or more L-shaped tabs that extend upward from the top edge and across the upper edge 157 of the cup. As in other embodiments, the living hinge 160 permits the lid 150 to be bent along the line of the hinge to flexibly secure the lid 150 to the lower receiver portion 152 and prevent leakage of the substance contained therein.

The inner side of the cup 140 may have an inner concentric circle 200 as described in embodiment 10 to enhance the ease with which the cups can be stacked, stored, and removed or separated from each other.

Fig. 6 is a side view of a cup 140 having a living hinge 160 and a bubble or dome-shaped lid 150. The circular lid 150 fits within the inside of the cup and within the upper outer edge of the top of the cup 157. Tabs 170 on the lid 150 facilitate opening and closing of the lid 150. The outer rib 180 of the sealing structure on the bottom portion of the cup is shown. The external rib receives the lip on the bottom edge of the lid and forms another secure closure at the junction of the bottom edge of the lid and the inside of the cup, such that a double seal is formed with the lip and the junction between the bottom edge of the lid and the inside of the cup.

fig. 7 is a front view of a cup 140 having a living hinge and a bubble or dome-shaped lid 150 with an internal double seal, showing a tab 170, the upper edge 157 of the cup (in which the dome-shaped lid fits), and the external rib 180 of the internal groove of the lower portion of the internal double seal.

Fig. 8 is a top view of the cup 140 with the living hinge and the bubble or dome shaped lid 150 (in the closed position) showing the living hinge 160, tabs 170, and an opening 190 in the top of the lid for receiving a straw.

Figure 9 is a perspective view of a round bottom container 210 with a living hinge and lid with an internal double seal where the lid is concave. A molded sealable container 210 for containing a liquid or food has a lower receptacle portion 220 having a base 230, an open top 240, and a sidewall 250 between the base 230 and the open top 240, the base 230 having a smaller area than the top 240, the sidewall 250 extending from the base 230 to the open top 240 and forming inner and outer portions of the container 210, the open top 240 having an upper edge 260 defining an outermost periphery of the open top 250 and a living hinge 270 having a flexible arc 280, and a groove 308 below the upper edge extending the entire periphery of the inner portion of the container.

a living hinge 270 is molded into the upper edge 260 of the open top 240, attached to the lower receiver portion 220 and the lid 300, the living hinge 270 allowing the lid 300 to be bent over the open top 240 with the lid 300 securely fitting into the groove 308 extending the entire perimeter of the interior portion of the container. The open top upper edge 260 has curved edges on each side of the living hinge 270 that allow for easy opening of the lid 300, less wear and tear on the lid 300 and lower receiver portion 220 from repeated opening and closing, and ease of manufacture and less impact on the machine that makes the container 210. In addition, the shape of the curved edge and the living hinge help to retain the contents of the container within the container when the lid 300 is opened and closed.

lid 300 has a top surface 302 and a bottom surface 304 sized and shaped to fit securely into the inner perimeter of open top 240 of the container, with top surface 302 of the lid sloping downward from the outermost perimeter of the open top to the center of lid 290. As shown in fig. 25 and 26, the perimeter around the bottom surface of the lid 304 has a lip 306 extending downward from the perimeter of the lid, the lip 304 forming a double seal structure having a bottom edge that fits in a groove 308 that extends the entire perimeter of the interior of the container, and a top edge 302 that is the same size and shape as the inner perimeter of the upper edge of the top portion that has one or more L-shaped tabs 320 extending upward from the top edge and across the upper edge of the container 210. The outside of the groove is shown as 310 which receives the lip of the lid. This is part of the dual seal structure of the present invention which ensures that the lid fits securely into the container and prevents leakage, spillage and helps stabilize the cup.

Figure 10 is a side view of a round bottom container 210 with a living hinge 270 and lid with tabs 320, with an internal double seal showing the external ribs 310 of the internal double seal.

figure 11 is a front view of a round bottom container 210 with lid (in closed position), tab 320 and an internal double seal, the external rib of which is shown as 310.

Figure 12 is a top view of a round bottom container 210 with a lid (in the closed position) having a living hinge 270, a flexible arc 280 and a fluid diverter 290 that extends the entire circumference of the top edge of the lid at the sealing interface between the cup and the lid. Also shown is tab 320 on the lid.

Fig. 13 is a perspective view of a substantially rectangular-based container 410 having a living hinge 470 and a lid 500 having an internal double seal (shown in detail in fig. 29 and 30) with a groove or fluid diverter 490 in the top surface of the lid 502 to withdraw fluid from the seal. A molded sealable container 410 for containing a liquid or food has a lower receptacle portion 420 with a base 430, an open top 440, and a sidewall 450 between the base 430 and the open top 440, the base 430 having a smaller area than the top 440, the sidewall 450 extending from the base 430 to the open top 440 and forming inner and outer portions of the container 410, the open top 440 having an upper edge 460 defining the outermost periphery of the open top 450 and a living hinge 470 with a flexible arc 480, and a groove 508 extending below the upper edge the entire perimeter of the inner portion of the container, as shown in fig. 29.

A living hinge 470 is molded into the upper edge 460 of the open top 440, attached to the lower receiver portion 420 and the lid 500, the living hinge 470 allowing the lid 500 to be bent over the open top 440, wherein the lid 500 fits securely into the groove 508 extending the entire perimeter of the inner portion of the container. The open top upper edge 460 has curved edges on each side of the living hinge 470, which allows for easy opening of the lid 500, less wear and tear to the lid 500 and lower receiver portion 420 from repeated opening and closing, and ease of manufacture and less impact on the machine that makes the container 410. In addition, the shape of the curved edge and the living hinge help to retain the contents of the container within the container when the lid 500 is opened and closed.

Lid 500 has a top surface 502 and a bottom surface 504 sized and shaped to fit securely into the inner periphery of open top 540 of the container, with the top surface of lid 502 sloping downward from the outermost periphery of the open top to the center of lid 490. As shown in fig. 29 and 30, the perimeter around the bottom surface of the lid 504 has a lip 506 extending downward from the perimeter of the lid, the lip 504 forming a double sealing structure with a bottom edge that fits in a groove 508 that extends the entire perimeter of the interior of the container, and a top edge 502 that is the same size and shape as the inner perimeter of the upper edge of the top portion, the top edge having one or more L-shaped tabs 320 extending upward from the top edge and across the upper edge of the container 410. The outside of the groove is shown as 510 which receives the lip of the lid. This is part of the dual seal structure of the present invention, which ensures that the lid fits securely into the container and prevents leakage, spillage and helps stabilize the cup. The container 410 may also have one or more tabs 520 to facilitate opening and closing.

Fig. 14 is a side view of a container 410 having a generally rectangular bottom with a living hinge 470 and a lid having an internal double seal and a tab 520 for assisting in opening and closing the lid. As described herein, the lid fits within the container and the external rib of one component of the dual seal is shown as 510.

Fig. 15 is a front view of a generally rectangular-bottomed container 410 showing the tab 520 and the outside of one component of the dual seal 510.

Fig. 16 is a top view of a generally rectangular-bottomed container 410 having a living hinge 470 at the upper edge of the container 460 and a lid 500 in a closed position having a generally rectangular-shaped fluid diverter following the overall shape of the container 490, the fluid diverter being positioned diagonally to divert fluid away from the seal. The top also shows tabs 520.

fig. 17 is a perspective view of the cup 10 with the living hinge 70 and lid 100 (in the open position) having an internal double seal that includes a friction fit 104 of the lid edge and a lip 106 on the bottom edge of the lid that fits within a groove 108 that extends the circumference of the interior portion of the cup. The lid has an edge of approximately 1-14mm, preferably approximately 2-6mm in length. The top 102 of the lid has an L-shaped tab 120 to facilitate opening and closing. Additionally, the outside of one portion of the double seal structure 110 is shown as a rib that extends the entire periphery of the lower portion of the cup.

Figure 18 is a side view of the cup 10 with the living hinge 70 and lid (in the open position) with the inner double seal, the first part of which is the bottom lip 106 which is friction fit into the interior of the cup and the outer rib of the conforming lip enters the inner groove. The second component of the double seal is the top friction fit of the lid when the lip 106 is pushed into place and is due to the dimensions of the lid rim beside the lip 106, which is approximately 2-6mm long. The lid rim size will vary depending on how many ounces the cup or container holds, but in any event, the rim size will accommodate and achieve the double seal structure described herein.

Fig. 19 is a front view of the cup 10 with the lid in the open position.

Figure 20 is a top view of the cup 10 with the living hinge and lid (in the open position) with the inner double seal with the lower lip shown as 106 showing the bottom of the lid 104 and a small opening 130 in the lid and an L-shaped tab on the lid. In addition, an inner concentric circle 132 is shown just above the inside base of the cup. This is a raised area extending about 0.5cm to 1.5cm up from the inside bottom of the cup. It extends the entire perimeter of the interior just above the base, ensures easy stacking, spacing, manufacture and removal of the cup, and helps stabilize the cup so that it stands upright when the lid is opened. This feature is present in all of the inventive cups and containers disclosed herein.

fig. 21 is a perspective view of a cup 140 having a living hinge 160 and a bubble lid 150 having a top 192 and a bottom 194 and a lip 196 on the bottom edge 194 of the lid that fits into a groove 198 that extends the perimeter of the inner portion of the cup 156. The lid 150 has tabs 170 that facilitate opening and closing, and fits within the upper edge of the cup 157 and within the interior inset groove to ensure a secure fit between the lid 150 and the bottom portion of the cup 158. Within the cup and just above the base 152, there is an inner concentric circle (not shown) to aid in stacking, spacing, manufacturing, removal, and stabilization of the cup.

fig. 22 is a front view of the cup 140 with the living hinge 160 and bubble lid, with the lip 196 and lid fitted within the lower receptacle portion of the cup, while the outer portion of the lower portion of the double seal structure is shown as 180.

Fig. 23 is a front view of a cup 140 having a living hinge 160 and a bubble lid, the lid in an open position wherein the lid fits within the lower receptacle portion of the cup when moved at the living hinge, while the outer portion of the lower portion of the dual seal structure is shown as 180.

figure 24 is a top view of a cup with a living hinge and a bubble lid (in an open position). The inner concentric circle 200 is shown just above the base.

figure 25 is a perspective view of a round-bottomed container 210 with a living hinge and lid (in an open position) with lip 306 on the underside of lid 304 fitting within a groove inside container 308, the outside of the groove being shown as 310, the top of lid 302 when pressed down into the container forming a double seal with lip 306 and the friction fit of the bottom edge of the lid with the interior portion of the container.

Figure 26 is a side view of a round bottom container 210 with a living hinge and lid (in the open position). A lip 306 on the underside of the lid is shown, as well as the outside 310 of the groove.

Figure 27 is a side view of a round bottom container 210 with a living hinge and lid (in open position) and showing the outside 310 of the recess.

figure 28 is a side view of a round bottom container 210 with a living hinge and lid (in the open position). Also shown are inner concentric circles 330 as described herein.

Fig. 29 is a perspective view of a substantially rectangular-based container 410 having a living hinge and a lid with an internal double seal. The bottom edge of the cover 504 has a lip 506 that fits within an interior groove 508 that extends the entire inner perimeter of the container and an exterior rib 510 of the interior groove. When the top of cap 502 is pressed into the container, a double seal is created.

fig. 30 is a side view of a substantially rectangular-bottomed container 210 with a living hinge and lid (in an open position), showing the lip 506 and most of the bottom edge of the lid, which is a friction fit into the container, and showing the outer ribs 510 of the bottom portion of the dual seal.

Fig. 31 is a front view of a substantially rectangular-based container 210 having a living hinge, a lid (in an open position), and an external rib of the bottom portion of a dual seal 510.

Fig. 32 is a top view of a substantially rectangular-based container 410 having a living hinge and a lid with an internal double seal, wherein the lid is concave and the lid is in an open position. As shown, the substantially rectangular internal concentric structure 530 appears just above the base of the container and follows the contour of the internal shape of the container. This portion of the container has a diameter slightly smaller than the remainder of the container interior and is about 0.5 to 1.5cm high from the base of the container interior. This configuration facilitates stacking of the containers and facilitates removal since the containers do not stick together.

Fig. 33 is a perspective view of the cup 20 of the present invention with a living hinge and an internal double seal when stacked with the lid in an open position. All cups and containers are stacked in this manner. The dashed lines show the interior bottom of each cup and their position due to the inner concentric circles 132 in the bottom portion of each cup.

Fig. 34 is an enlarged side view of the inner double seal formed by the lip 106 on the bottom portion of the lid 104 meeting a groove in the inner portion of the cup 108, plus friction between the lid and the cup 112. Also shown is the top surface of the lid 104, which is shown with a fluid diverter extending diagonally downward from the seal toward the center of the lid 100 to direct fluid away from the seal. As shown, the lid is in the closed position. The groove 108 extending the circumference of the inner portion of the cup is shown together with the corresponding rib on the outer side 110. Thus, the double seal structure is shown in detail, including 112 and 104, 106, 108 and 110.

fig. 35 is a perspective view of the inner double seal on the lid in an open position. The top surface of lid 102 is shown with bottom portion 104 having a lip on the bottom edge of lid 106, forming one aspect of a double seal. When the living hinge 70 is closed, the lip is in a friction fit connection with the lid 100 within the lower receiver portion of the cup (not shown).

Fig. 36 is a second perspective view of the inner double seal on the lid in an open position. The top surface of lid 102 is shown with bottom portion 104 having a lip on the bottom edge of lid 106, forming one aspect of a double seal. The lip is in friction fit connection with the lid 100 within the lower receiver portion of the cup (not shown).

Fig. 37 is an enlarged perspective view of the inner double seal on the lid in the closed position. One portion of the dual seal is shown as a lip on the bottom edge of the lid 106 that fits into a groove that extends the circumference of the interior portion of the cup 108, and also shows the exterior rib formed by the groove 110. The second portion 112 of the dual seal is shown by the friction fit of the lid 100 within the lower receptacle portion of the cup. The top edge 60 of the cup is shown to indicate that it is part of the cup, and the flow diverter 90 is also shown in detail, and is shown oriented diagonally from the seal toward the center of the cup.

Fig. 38 is an enlarged perspective view of living hinge 70 and flexible arc 80, which assumes the shape of the interior of the lid. The fluid diverter 90 is also shown as extending the entire inner perimeter of the lid and is consistent throughout even where the living hinge is located.

FIG. 39 is a perspective view of a cup of the present invention having external ribs that make the cup self-insulating. Additional ribs may be molded into the structure of the cup and serve to help keep the liquid inside warm and protect the user's hands while carrying and drinking. Alternatively, the cup of the present invention may have an internal sleeve for self-insulating the cup. A label or other indicia may be integrated into the sleeve and will be an adhesive material and product in accordance with the teachings of the present application.

All of the foregoing includes a plurality of bi-directional seals that create two or more sets of sealing features and bi-directional sealing features incorporated on the outer and inner lid seals.

While the invention has been described with respect to specific embodiments, it will be appreciated that other variations of the invention may be devised without departing from the inventive concept.

Industrial applicability

The present invention can be industrially applied to many different fields requiring disposable or reusable sealable cups and containers, including food; aerospace; household articles; sports; a medical scenario for specimen collection, dispensing and liquid administration; and educational industries and scenarios.

Claims

1. A molded sealable cup for containing a liquid or food, comprising

(a) A lower receiver portion having a base, an open top, and a sidewall between the base and the open top, the base having a smaller diameter than the top, the sidewall forming a cylinder from the base to the open top and forming an inner portion and an outer portion of the cup, the open top having an upper edge defining an outermost periphery of the open top, a living hinge having a flexible circular arc, and a groove (90) extending the entire circumference of the inner portion of the cup below the upper edge;

(b) The living hinge molded into an upper edge of the open top, attached to the lower receptacle portion and lid, the living hinge allowing the lid to be bent over the open top, wherein the lid can fit securely into the groove (108) extending the entire circumference of the inner portion of the cup;

(c) The lid having a top surface and a bottom surface sized and shaped to securely fit to the inner perimeter of the open top of the cup, a top surface of the lid slopes downward from an outermost periphery of the open top to a center of the lid, a periphery around a bottom surface of the lid having a lip extending downward from the periphery of the lid, the lip forming a double seal structure, the double seal structure having a bottom edge with ribs that fit into the groove (108) extending the entire circumference of the inner portion of the cup and a top edge that is the same size and shape as the inner circumference of the upper edge of the top portion, thereby forming a friction fit seal between the lid and the bottom inner portion of the cup, the lid having one or more L-shaped tabs extending upwardly from the top edge and across the upper edge of the cup;

Wherein the living hinge allows the lid to be bent along a line of the hinge to flexibly secure the lid to the lower receptacle portion of the cup and prevent leakage of the substance contained therein;

Wherein the groove (90) extending the entire perimeter of the top surface of the lid below the upper edge of the cup when the cup is in the closed position directs fluid away from the seal into the center of the lid; and is

Wherein the double seal ensures that the outer circumference of the lid contacts the inner circumference of the lower receptacle portion of the cup to ensure a secure seal by the rib fitting into the groove 108 and the edge of the lip contacting the inside of the cup.

2. The molded sealable cup of claim 1, wherein the cup is made of polypropylene.

3. the molded sealable cup of claim 1, wherein the lid has a small opening opposite the living hinge and allowing liquid to pass through and a vent adjacent the living hinge to allow liquid to flow smoothly.

4. the molded sealable cup of claim 1, wherein the base of the inner portion of the cup has a concentric molded ring that extends the circumference of the inner portion of the cup on the sidewall directly above the base, wherein the concentric molded ring allows the cups to be stacked together and easily removed.

5. The molded sealable cup of claim 1, wherein the upper edge of the cup has a discontinuity on the perimeter to accommodate the living hinge, the discontinuity on the perimeter having two arcuate edges on both sides of the living hinge extending upward from the flexible arc of the living hinge to the upper edge.

6. The molded sealable cup of claim 1, having a label wrapped around the lower receiver portion.

7. The molded sealable cup of claim 1, having a built-in spacer sleeve comprising vertical concentric ribs.

8. A molded sealable cup for containing a liquid or food, comprising

(a) A lower receiver portion having a base, an open top, and a sidewall between the base and the open top, the base having a smaller diameter than the top, the sidewall forming a cylinder from the base to the open top and forming inner and outer portions of the cup, the open top having an upper edge and a living hinge defining an outermost periphery of the open top;

(b) The living hinge molded into the upper edge of the open top, attached to the lower receptacle portion and an arched lid, the living hinge allowing the arched lid to bend over the open top, wherein the lid can fit securely into the groove extending the entire circumference of the inner portion of the cup;

(c) The domed cover having a top surface and a bottom edge sized and shaped to fit securely into the inner perimeter of the open top of the cup, the top surface of the cover having a dome shape raised from the outermost perimeter of the open top, the perimeter around the bottom surface of the cover having a lip extending downwardly from the bottom edge of the perimeter of the cover, the lip forming a double seal structure having a bottom edge and a top edge, the bottom edge with ribs fitting into the groove 108 extending the entire perimeter of the inner portion of the cup, the top edge being sized and shaped the same as the inner perimeter of the upper edge of the top, the top edge having one or more tabs extending upwardly from the top edge and across the upper edge of the cup;

Wherein the living hinge permits the lid to be bent along a line of the hinge to flexibly secure the lid to the lower receiver portion and prevent leakage of a substance contained therein.

9. the molded sealable cup of claim 8, wherein the cup is made of polypropylene.

10. The molded sealable cup of claim 8, wherein the lid has a small opening opposite the living hinge to allow liquid to pass through and a vent adjacent the living hinge to allow liquid to flow smoothly.

11. The molded sealable cup of claim 8, wherein the base of the inner portion of the cup has a concentrically molded ring that extends the circumference of the inner portion of the cup on the sidewall just above the base, wherein the concentrically molded ring allows the cups to be stacked together and easily removed.

12. A molded sealable container for holding a liquid or food, comprising

a lower receiver portion having a base, an open top, and a sidewall between the base and the open top, the base having a smaller area than the top, the sidewall extending from the base to the open top and forming an inner portion and an outer portion of the container, the open top having an upper edge defining an outermost periphery of the open top and a living hinge having a flexible arc, and a groove extending the entire circumference of the inner portion of the container below the upper edge;

the living hinge molded into an upper edge of the open top, attached to the lower receiver portion and a lid, the living hinge allowing the lid to be bent over the open top, wherein the lid can fit securely into the groove extending the entire perimeter of the interior portion of the container;

Said lid having a top surface and a bottom surface sized and shaped to fit securely to the inner perimeter of the open top of the container, the top surface of the lid sloping downwardly from the outermost perimeter of the open top to the center of the lid, the perimeter around the bottom surface of the lid having a lip extending downwardly from the perimeter of the lid, the lip forming a double seal structure having a bottom edge and a top edge, the bottom edge having a rib that fits in the groove that extends the entire perimeter of the interior portion of the container, the top edge being the same size and shape as the inner perimeter of the upper edge of the top, the top edge having one or more L-shaped tabs that extend upwardly from the top edge and across the upper edge of the container;

Wherein the living hinge permits the lid to be bent along a line of the hinge to flexibly secure the lid to the container and prevent leakage of the substance contained therein.

13. The container of claim 12, wherein the base is rectangular.

14. The container of claim 12, wherein the base is square.

15. the container of claim 12, wherein there is an opening in the lid.

16. The container of claim 12, wherein the container is made of polypropylene.

17. an injection moulded sleeve made from a single rigid sheet of material for insulating a cup, the sleeve being rounded in shape wherein the internal diameter of the sleeve is wider at the top than at the bottom to form a tight fit on the cup.

18. the sleeve of claim 17, formed by an injection molding process.

19. the sleeve of claim 17, wherein the sleeve is made of polypropylene.

20. the sleeve of claim 17, wherein the sleeve is collapsible and comprises two living hinges opposing each other and has a consistent thickness throughout, wherein the sleeve collapses into a flat orientation.